Get an internship
This may sound easy, but getting an internship can be very difficult. Having an internship gives you a chance to learn more about the real-world factors that go into your job and how to behave in a professional workplace. If you can’t find an internship, reach out to companies that you find interesting and see if they have any opportunities. Internships can also be virtual, so if you can’t find anything in your hometown, try finding a virtual one! These won’t pay high amounts but will give you some kind of compensation.
Find a summer job
Football games and their outfits, going out with friends, and the Starbucks you’ll need to make it to an 8 AM can be really expensive. However, working while taking a full course load is a little overwhelming. Building a nest egg to cover you if you can’t work during the school year can take so much pressure off you while you’re in school!
Budget
Take some time to create an in-depth budget per month that will allow you to pay your rent and utilities, go out with friends, stock your place with snacks, and take care of your needs. Be sure to leave room to save for the future in case a laptop breaks, car trouble happens, or just to put toward your future after graduation.
Try to pay off debt!
If you get a summer job and aren’t paying for going out every week like in college, where can you spend the extra money? Pay off debt! The less debt the better, so you can navigate the real world once you graduate.
Buy winter clothes
Sounds weird right? Well, most winter clothes over the summer are up to 90% off. This makes summer a great time to buy a new coat, boots, sweaters, and long sleeve options while saving your future self lots of cash.
Find out what free resources your school has
Some schools offer free mental health resources online or even Hulu for being part of the campus community. Now that you have the free time to research, do it!
Keep track of your receipts
Last year’s tax season just ended, so we all know how important receipts can be. Make sure you keep them so you can refer back while you are budgeting.
S-t-u-d-e-n-t—D-i-s-c-o-u-n-t-s
SO many companies have student discounts that can save you money on your monthly subscriptions. The perfect time to switch over is in the summer when you have the time to look into your best options. One of my favorites, Apple Music, has a $5 a month student plan. Get what you want but for cheap!
Whatever you do this summer to fix your finances, just know that while it is scary, it’s a big step in the right direction. Happy budgeting!